The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has proposed adding the Upper Columbia River Site in northeastern Washington to the National Priorities List (NPL). This designation would make the site eligible for cleanup financed under the federal Superfund Program.
Why is the EPA proposing this?
The EPA has determined that soils contaminated with lead and arsenic pose a significant health risk to residents, especially children, in at least 194 residential areas. The primary source of this contamination is believed to be the Teck Metals Ltd. smelting facility located in Trail, British Columbia, upstream from the border.
The EPA is currently seeking public comment on the proposed listing. The public comment period will run from March 7th to May 6th, 2024. After considering public comments, the EPA will make a final decision on listing the site as early as September 2024.
To learn about current NPL updates and get involved visit: https://www.epa.gov/columbiariver/upper-columbia-river-study-area
Learn About Lead: https://www.epa.gov/lead
Updated Soil Lead Guidance for CERCLA Sites and RCRA Corrective Action Facilities: https://www.epa.gov/superfund/updated-soil-lead-guidance-cercla-sites-and-rcra-corrective-action-facilities
